Kwong Lee Dow Scholarship 2026
Scholarship Information
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Kwong Lee Dow Scholarship – Academic Enrichment for High School Students
The Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program at the University of Melbourne is a prestigious academic enrichment initiative designed to support high-achieving Year 10 students as they complete their final years of secondary school.
Each year, ambitious students from Victoria and select schools in the border regions of New South Wales or South Australia are encouraged to apply. For more opportunities for students in Australia, explore fully funded scholarships in Australia for international students.
Program Overview
The program offers a two-year experience of events and activities designed to expand academic and personal horizons, preparing students for success at university and beyond. Young Scholars participate in a range of activities including personal development workshops, academic events,
VCE Unit 3/4 revision lectures, and overnight adventures on campus. Students also gain access to the University's library network, which holds more than 3.5 million books and study resources.
Benefits of the Program
Academic and Personal Development: Young Scholars develop academic, professional, and communication skills through workshops and events.
Community and Networking: Scholars join a diverse community of ambitious students, forming close bonds with peers throughout the two-year program.
VCE Revision Support: Year 11 and 12 students studying Unit 3/4 subjects can access lecture slides, handouts, and sample essays during Term 2/3 school holidays.
Celebration Event: At the end of the program, scholars and their families are invited to a celebration event marking the completion of secondary school.
Young Scholar Alumni Benefits
Upon graduating from the program and choosing to study at the University of Melbourne, Young Scholars may be eligible for several benefits:
Guaranteed Place in an Undergraduate Course: Domestic Young Scholars are eligible for a guaranteed place in selected undergraduate courses in the year following Year 12, provided they satisfy subject prerequisites, achieve the required ATAR, and preference appropriately in VTAC.
Guaranteed ATARs are significantly lower than standard entry requirements, with courses such as the Bachelor of Arts requiring 86.00 (or 83.00 for students from under-represented schools), the Bachelor of Science requiring 89.00 (or 86.00), and the Bachelor of Commerce requiring 90.00 (or 87.00).
Relocation Allowance: Young Scholars from regional or remote areas, or from interstate, may receive a $2,500 allowance to help with relocation costs, including living expenses, transport, textbooks, and other course-related expenses.
Study Overseas Scholarship: Young Scholars may be awarded a Melbourne Global Scholars Award of up to $2,500 to study at one of over 200 partner institutions in more than 45 countries.
For similar university pathways, check the latest scholarships in Australia for all nationalities.
Eligibility and Application
To be eligible, students must be in Year 10 and attend school in Victoria or the border regions of New South Wales. The application process requires students to submit an application and obtain endorsement from their school. Schools may endorse up to five selected students.
Class of 2028 Key Dates:
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Applications Open: 20 July 2026 for current Year 10 students
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Student Applications Close: 30 August 2026
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School Endorsements Open: 2 September 2026
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School Endorsements Close: 23 October 2026
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Notification of Outcomes: 9 November 2026, with schools and students notified
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Welcome Event: January 2027 for successful applicants
Year 10 students interested in applying should speak with their year-level coordinator, career adviser, or principal to obtain the application form.
About Professor Kwong Lee Dow
The program is named in honour of Emeritus Professor Kwong Lee Dow, a former University Vice-Chancellor, distinguished education scholar, and active contributor to curriculum reforms. He was appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 1984 and made an Officer of the Order in 2012.
Since the program's inception in 2007, more than 8,000 students from over 500 participating schools have taken part.
For a broader view of funding options, refer to financial aids for students in Australia.
Final Thoughts
The Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program provides an exceptional head start for high-achieving Year 10 students, offering academic enrichment, a supportive community, and valuable alumni benefits including guaranteed entry to the University of Melbourne, relocation support, and overseas study opportunities.
If you are a motivated student in Victoria or the border regions of NSW or South Australia, speak with your school and apply before the deadline to join this inspiring community of young scholars. For a comprehensive list of opportunities in Australia, see the list of all open scholarships in Australia.
